How Tongue Ties Affects Breastfeeding

A Tongue Tie (ankyloglossia) is when the tissue under a baby’s tongue is too tight or short, making it harder for them to move their tongue freely. This can cause breastfeeding challenges.

Breastfeeding Challenges Linked to Tongue Ties:

• Shallow latch → nipple pain, cracks, or damage.

• Poor milk transfer → baby may feed often but still seem hungry.

• Low milk supply → breasts not emptying effectively.

• Clicking sounds during feeding → baby is losing suction.

• Slow weight gain in baby.

• Gassiness and Fussiness.

How it impacts parents:

• Nipple pain that don’t improve with positioning.

• Longer or more frequent feeding sessions.

• Stress and worry about feeding.

Helpful tools while you seek support

• Nipple shields - protect sore nipples

• Breast pumps - helps maintain supply.

• Supplemental nursing systems (SNS) - give extra milk while baby practices latching. (seek IBCLC for SNS)

Find my recommended products here in my amazon store front- the same tools I suggest to families navigating tongue ties.

When to seek professional support.

If there is unbearable breastfeeding pain, slow weight gain, or constant feeding struggles continues, it’s important to meet with a lactation consultant (IBCLC) for assessment and strategies.